Jessica G.

Since we already had our herpes news for today, here's your friendly HPV tidbit: many experts think that Gardasil, the only HPV vaccine currently on the market, is not permanently effective. Some researchers think that a booster may be needed after the ten-year mark. In addition, there is no proof that the vaccine works in preteens. Dartmouth gynecologist Diane Harper says, "The efficacy trials of this vaccine didn't include anyone under age 16." Some good news about HPV: though Gardasil still is not kosher for women ages 27 and above, the CDC is likely to approve use for women up to age 45 in the near future. Also, HPV goes away on its own 75-95% of the time, according to British research — a comforting thought for those of us without health insurance.
[US News & World Report]